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Everyone who's ever been off the beaten trail understands how important having adequate suspension can be in how their 4x4 handles and what it's capable of. The stock suspension on your vehicle is suitable for driving on paved roads, but lacks the necessary height and performance for driving on rough off-road terrain. For this reason, 4x4 suspension kits are one of the first things avid off-roaders install on their off-road vehicles. But how do these accessories improve driveability, handling and performance?
Well, aftermarket 4x4 suspension kits are specifically made to reduce the effect of bumps on the road, improve handling and keep the wheels steady. When you go over a bump, the suspension absorbs the impact, so you don't feel the tumble inside the cabin. When the suspension isn't set correctly or gets worn out, it can disrupt your ability to handle your vehicle. This can make it unsafe, and extremely uncomfortable. Additionally, while the differentials and chassis are designed to move your car toward and away from bumps, the suspension maintains the drive at body level.
How to Choose the Right Suspension for Your Vehicle
When shopping for suspension kits from a store selling 4x4 accessories online, make sure to consider some important factors. These factors will decide which suspension kit is right for you:
- Weight Capacity
- 4x4 Flex
- Comfort
- Durability
- Terrain
Keep in mind that most suspension systems also have their own disadvantages, so you'll have to make some compromises and decide which things are important for you.
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Weight Capacity
This is the most crucial factor to consider. It is recommended that you remove most of your heavy modifications before going forward, including bull bars, rear bars, roof racks, fridges, water storage, etc. If you intend on carrying a lot of gear, you should get a suspension that's planted on the ground and weighs properly. Your car might be more difficult to drive without the added weight, though.
4x4 Flex
One of the major problems for most 4x4 owners is determining the proper capacity. When your car is empty, having springs that are overly stiff will cause a bumpy ride. Therefore, it's crucial to spend time figuring out the weight capacity.
Additionally, you must take into account the flex or the movement of your wheels. The flex controls whether or not your tires will be firmly planted on the ground. Additionally, it affects the way your car will tilt. Vehicles that have enough flex will be able to navigate through deep ruts while having less inclination to tilt. But if there isn't enough flex, your car could move over the chassis, which is quite risky.
Comfort
One of the main reasons you're getting an aftermarket suspension is to improve your comfort when driving over rough terrain. This will make the trip more enjoyable, and safer. Nobody wants to stop driving and have to rest because their bums or backs are aching.
Durability
It's important to get a suspension that can take a good beating. That being said, consider the type of terrain you'll be driving on most of the time. Oftentimes, getting a cheaper option won't equal better value. For instance, shock absorbers designed to reduce the springs' movement can cause friction. Friction turns into heat, which will wear out and degrade the shock absorbers.
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When driving through the Australian outback, cheap shock absorbers can do the job well enough initially, but they'll fail faster as a result of the excessive heat. Therefore, heavy-duty shock absorbers are essential if you intend to travel long distances.
Terrain
The terrain you'll frequently drive on is a crucial consideration, as was already said. You'll need a heavy-duty suspension, which is probably more expensive if you want to go through rough terrain. You can get away with a less expensive, light-duty suspension if you're merely commuting and your trip involves travelling over gentle terrain.
By now, you probably understand that there are quite a few factors to consider when buying these 4x4 accessories online. You don't need to know everything by heart, but having a good idea can definitely help. When shopping, you can also ask the seller to get an opinion from someone who probably knows all the intricacies. Read reviews online and see the experience of past customers.
What Are the Parts of 4x4 Suspension Kits?
Most suspension kits include shock absorbers, springs and linkages. However, they may also include a range of other parts. Suspensions are separated into two basic categories - independent suspensions and solid axle suspensions. Moreover, there are further subcategories like coil-overs, coil springs, leaf springs, multi-links, etc.
Independent Suspension
Independent suspensions are those that don't have their differentials joined together. These are also known as IFS/IRS (independent front or rear suspension), where one side can experience movement without the other side experiencing any. These are limited by their flex and strength, and you can't lift them more than 5cm without performing a decent amount of work. However, these suspensions provide superior clearance and a more comfortable ride.
Solid Axle Suspension
These suspension systems are located on both sides of the differential and are joined together. So, when one side moves, the other side moves as well. On the road, you'll feel the bumps on both sides. Most off-roaders prefer this type of suspension as it also allows for the installation of bigger tyres. Solid axle suspensions provide better flex, and they're stronger than independent suspensions.
What Is the Role of Shock Absorbers and Springs?
These are the two key parts included in suspension systems. Shock absorbers reduce the movement of the spring. The springs are what absorb the bumps. When you go over a bump, your vehicle will move up and down, but only once. This is because the shock absorbers prevent the spring from moving. The springs take the weight of your vehicle, and they make for a stable ride. These parts are available in a wide range of variations, and they're crucial in how the whole suspension system will perform.